Clinical2024
A randomized controlled study of a multi-component anti-aging eye cream containing palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 showed reduced periorbital wrinkles and good tolerability.
Collagen density improvement
anecdotalSkin Health
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Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Anti-inflammatory skin peptide for reducing age-related damage
Overview
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is a synthetic lipopeptide used in cosmetic skincare formulations for its anti-inflammatory and skin-rejuvenating properties. The peptide sequence is modified with palmitic acid to enhance penetration through the skin barrier. Research demonstrates Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 reduces production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a pro-inflammatory cytokine that increases with age and contributes to skin aging through "inflammaging." By modulating inflammatory pathways, the peptide may reduce UV-induced damage, improve skin tone, and support healthy collagen maintenance. Studies show it works synergistically with other cosmetic peptides, particularly Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 in the Matrixyl 3000 complex. Clinical evidence indicates improvements in skin smoothness, firmness, and reduction of fine lines with regular topical application. The anti-inflammatory mechanism distinguishes it from direct collagen-stimulating peptides. Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is considered safe for cosmetic use and is commonly found in anti-aging serums, eye creams, and moisturizers targeting mature skin.
Last reviewed: 2026-08-18
Identity & Aliases
Also known as
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7Pal-GQPRTetrapeptide-7 (palmitoylated)RiginMatrixyl 3000 component (with palmitoyl tripeptide-1)
CAS221227-05-0
PubChem10078408Full composition (formula, molecular weight, sequence) in Quick Facts →
Research Areas
Cosmetic anti-aging skincareSkin 'inflammaging' and IL-6 modulationCollagen / skin-matrix research
Available Evidence
Human
Human data come primarily from cosmetic formulation studies: e.g., a randomized controlled trial of a multi-component anti-aging eye cream containing palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 reported improved periorbital wrinkles and tolerability (2024, PMID 38932444). Studies are typically small and industry-funded.
In Vitro
Fibroblast assays show palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 (Pal-GQPR) suppresses IL-6, a pro-inflammatory cytokine implicated in age-related skin inflammation ('inflammaging'), and modulates extracellular matrix components.
Uncertain
Standalone clinical evidence for palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 is limited; most published results come from multi-ingredient formulations (e.g., Matrixyl 3000) making attribution to this peptide alone difficult.
Key Studies & Findings
In Vitro
In cultured fibroblasts, palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 suppresses IL-6 production, consistent with an anti-inflammatory mechanism targeting skin 'inflammaging'.
In-vitro cell studies
Benefits & Effects
Side Effects & Safety
Limitations & Open Questions
No medical indications; evidence is dominated by cosmetic-claim studies on combination products; little independent research isolates the peptide; regulatory status is cosmetic ingredient (not a drug).
Pharmacology
Topical cosmetic lipopeptide: palmitic acid conjugation enhances skin penetration; reported to inhibit IL-6-mediated inflammatory signaling in skin. No systemic pharmacokinetic data.
Reported Research Dosing
Reported values from research literature and community protocols. Educational reference only — not a dosing recommendation or medical advice.
dosage not established
Route: Topical
Half-life: Variable (topical)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 a drug?
No - it is a cosmetic ingredient used in topical skincare; it has no FDA-approved drug indications.
What is its role in Matrixyl 3000?
Matrixyl 3000 combines palmitoyl tripeptide-1 with palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7; the tetrapeptide contributes anti-inflammatory (IL-6 suppression) activity while the tripeptide targets collagen synthesis.
Research Citations
1
Usage of Synthetic Peptides in Cosmetics for Sensitive Skin.
Resende DISP, Ferreira MS, Sousa-Lobo JM, Sousa E, Almeida IF (2021)
2
Injectable polypeptide/chitosan hydrogel with loaded stem cells and rapid gelation promoting angiogenesis for diabetic wound healing.
Xing C, Hou L, Sun C, Chen H, Li Y, Li L, Wu Y, Li L, An H, Wen Y, Du H (2025)
3
Evaluation of dermal extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction modifications using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometric imaging, in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy, echography, and histology: effect of age and peptide applications.
Mondon P, Hillion M, Peschard O, Andre N, Marchand T, Doridot E, Feuilloley MG, Pionneau C, Chardonnet S (2015)
Related Resources
Quick Facts
Formula
C34H62N8O7
Molecular Weight
547.0
Sequence
P
Mechanism
Anti-inflammatory peptide for skin repair and rejuvenation
Safety Information
Generally safe for cosmetic use. Used in anti-aging formulations. Topical application well-tolerated.
Citations
31.Usage of Synthetic Peptides in Cosmetics for Sensitive Skin.
Resende DISP, Ferreira MS, Sousa-Lobo JM, Sousa E, Almeida IF (2021)
2.Injectable polypeptide/chitosan hydrogel with loaded stem cells and rapid gelation promoting angiogenesis for diabetic wound healing.
Xing C, Hou L, Sun C, Chen H, Li Y, Li L, Wu Y, Li L, An H, Wen Y, Du H (2025)
3.Evaluation of dermal extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction modifications using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometric imaging, in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy, echography, and histology: effect of age and peptide applications.
Mondon P, Hillion M, Peschard O, Andre N, Marchand T, Doridot E, Feuilloley MG, Pionneau C, Chardonnet S (2015)